TAMPA — Every year, it seems, another piece of history crumbles. Two years ago, the Maas Brothers department store was bulldozed to make way for a condominium development that hasn't taken shape. Last year, downtown's vacant Albany Hotel went up in flames. And just last month, the roof of the 95-year-old Gary school caved in, after years of warnings about water damage. Dennis Fernandez, the city's historic preservation manager, calls these classic cases of "demolition by neglect." And he's working on a plan to stop others from meeting the same fate.

He may have to wait until November for a hearing with the Architectural Review Board, which must approve any demolition.

That is, unless the rest of the building collapses.

Alexandra Zayas can be reached at azayas@sptimes.com or (813) 226-3354.

Critical condition

Dennis Fernandez, the city's historic preservation manager, identified a few of Tampa's most treasured buildings that could face "demolition by neglect" if they aren't restored. Here they are:

Kress Building 811 Franklin St., Downtown; Built: 1929

Why it's important: It was one of the last major commercial structures built in Tampa before the Great Depression and is reminiscent of the era when downtown was the city's central retail location.

Why it's in danger: A private owner's plans to incorporate the Kress into a condominium development haven't panned out. The building is vacant, with broken windows and cracks that allow water to seep in.

Sicilian Club 2001 N Howard Ave., West Tampa; Built: 1929

Why it's important: Ethnic clubs like this one were instrumental in the development of West Tampa and Ybor City. This club hosted dances and drew crowds to its theater.

Why it's in danger: It's vacant and its windows have been stuccoed over, which doesn't allow moisture to escape. Water intrusion is the downfall of historic buildings.

Why it's important: At one point, 200 cigar factories across Tampa built the economic and social foundation of this city. Now, only 26 remain.

Why it's in danger: Unlike the other buildings mentioned, this cigar factory doesn't have a historic designation, so it's not offered the same protections as the others. A planned development failed, so now, it's vacant. Fernandez says its owner has been uncooperative with the city.